Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole during cozy family dinners. The way the creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and fluffy rice creates such a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. I find joy in the simplicity of this recipe, as it requires only a few ingredients found in most pantries, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, it's a complete meal all in one dish—what's not to love?

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:37:47.278Z

When making this casserole, I experimented with different types of cheese, and I discovered that a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella gives the dish a delightful texture and flavor. It’s an excellent way to use leftover chicken, which makes this meal both economical and delicious. I like to serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

The key to achieving the perfect creaminess lies in using a combination of chicken broth and sour cream, which balances the richness without overwhelming the dish. The rice cooks beautifully as it absorbs all those flavors while baking, making each bite incredibly satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
Hearty and filling, perfect for family gatherings
Simple and quick to prepare with pantry staples

Ingredient Insights

Understanding the role of each ingredient in Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The cream of chicken soup not only adds richness but also serves as a binding agent, ensuring that all components meld beautifully. Using high-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor profile, so opt for a low-sodium version if you prefer more control over salt levels in your dish.

Sour cream is another key player in this casserole; it provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the cheese. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using Greek yogurt, which offers similar creaminess with added protein. When selecting vegetables, feel free to customize the mix based on your preference—broccoli, peas, or even bell peppers can elevate the dish's nutrition and taste.

Techniques for Success

Getting the rice perfectly tender is crucial for a successful casserole. Since the rice is uncooked when mixed with the other ingredients, it will absorb moisture during baking. Keeping a close eye on the casserole in the last 15 minutes of baking ensures it doesn’t overcook. If you see the edges browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil to protect it.

For optimal cheese incorporation, it's best to add shredded cheddar cheese just before the final stage of baking. This technique ensures that the cheese melts evenly, creating a beautifully bubbly topping. If you prefer a golden crust, consider broiling the casserole for an additional 2-5 minutes at the end, but watch it carefully to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, mixed vegetables, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Transfer and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Uncover and Bake

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbling.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously creamy chicken and rice casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions and garlic before mixing them into the casserole. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also make a lovely addition for a pop of freshness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking times.

If you're planning to freeze it, I recommend preparing the casserole without baking it first. Instead, cover it with foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and then bake straight from the refrigerator, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Chicken And Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with complementary sides. A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch. Additionally, crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.

For a twist, you may consider topping portions with crispy fried onions or additional cheese during the last few minutes of baking for extra crunch and flavor. These simple additions can transform this comforting casserole into an even more indulgent experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can substitute the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cream of chicken soup to reduce calories.